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Cipriani wants to stay in England side

Danny Cipriani is desperate to stay in the England team after ending a seven-year Six Nations absence against Italy last week.

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Written BySacha Pisani

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After taking the England rugby union national team for granted
previously, Danny Cipriani has no intention of surrendering his
spot under Stuart Lancaster after ending seven years in the Six
Nations wilderness last week.

Cipriani made his first championship appearance since 2008,
coming off the bench to replace George Ford 18 minutes from the end
as England crushed Italy 47-17 in their second Six Nations fixture
at Twickenham.

The 27-year-old did represent England on their tour of New
Zealand in June.

But a long-term injury to Owen Farrell allowed Cipriani to
return to the England squad at championship level and the Sale
Sharks man is desperate to make the most of his opportunity.

"There is no way I ever want to be out of this England side ever
again for as long as I am playing," Cipriani said.

"I probably took it for granted [before]. At the time I didn't
say I took it for granted but you don't really appreciate the
moments as they come along. That is what I am doing now. At least I
can sort of breathe a bit now because I got on to the field on
Saturday. It was one of the highlights of my career to get back out
there.

"Every moment and every experience I am appreciating. I am very
focused on making the best of my ability.

"Everyone is aiming to get to that number one spot. Everyone
wants to be putting their hand up, so it is important I don't step
off the mark one bit."